Hierarchy

William stood at the top of the hierarchy, with ultimate authority over landholding. Below him were tenants-in-chief, who held land directly from the king. They included great nobles and important churchmen, such as bishops and abbots.

Although the hierarchy was unequal, it was not completely fixed. Rules describing advancement from ceorl to thegn show that gaining land and a recognised position could raise someone’s status. One text referred to possession of five hides of land alongside other qualifications, including an office in the king’s hall.